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Missouri
Department of Revenue
Motorcycle
Operator
Manual
Form 2332 (Revised 08-2018)PREFACE
Welcome to the Seventeenth Edition This latest edition has undergone
of the MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual significant improvements, and contains
(MOM). Operating a motorcycle safely new, more in-depth information,
in traffic requires special skills and designed to:
knowledge. The Motorcycle Safety • Guide riders in preparing to ride
Foundation (MSF) has made this manual safely
available to help novice motorcyclists
reduce their risk of having a crash. The • Develop effective street strategies
manual conveys essential safe riding • Give riders more comprehensive
information and has been designed understanding of safe group riding
for use in licensing programs. While practices
designed for the novice, all motorcyclists
• Describe in detail best practices for
can benefit from the information this
carrying passengers and cargo
manual contains.
In promoting improved licensing
The original Motorcycle Operator
programs, the MSF works closely with
Manual was developed by the National
state licensing agencies. The Foundation
Public Services Research Institute (NPSRI)
has helped more than half the states
under contract to the National Highway
in the nation adopt the Motorcycle
Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
Operator Manual for use in their
and within the terms of a cooperative
licensing systems.
agreement between NHTSA and the
MSF. The manual and related tests Improved licensing, along with high
were used in a multi-year study of quality motorcycle rider education and
improved motorcycle operator licensing increased public awareness, has the
procedures, conducted by the California potential to reduce crashes. Staff at
Department of Motor Vehicles under the Foundation are available to assist
contract to NHTSA. governmental and private agencies in
efforts to improve motorcycle safety.
The purpose of this manual is to
educate riders and to help them avoid
crashes while safely operating either
a standard two-wheel motorcycle or a
three-wheel motorcycle. Tim Buche
President,
Motorcycle Safety Foundation
msf-usa.orgCONTENTS
THE RIDER AND Minimize the Risks �����������������������������44
THE MOTORCYCLE ���������������������������4 Step in to Protect Friends ������������������45
Marijuana and
PREPARING TO RIDE Motorcycle Operation �������������������45
Wear the Right Gear ����������������������������5 Fatigue ������������������������������������������������46
Know Your Motorcycle ������������������������7
Know Your Responsibilities ���������������10 EARNING YOUR LICENSE��������������47
RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT
Basic Vehicle Control ��������������������������11 Supplementary Information
for Three-Wheel Motorcycles���������49
Keeping Your Distance �����������������������15
Know Your Vehicle������������������������������49
SEE �������������������������������������������������������20
Basic Vehicle Control���������������������������51
Intersections ���������������������������������������21
Carrying Passengers and Cargo����������54
Increasing Conspicuity �����������������������24
Crash Avoidance ���������������������������������27 HAND SIGNALS........................... 55
Handling Dangerous Surfaces �����������30
MOTORCYCLE SKILLS TEST........ 57
Mechanical Problems �������������������������33
Animals �����������������������������������������������34 T-CLOCS PRE-RIDE CHECKLIST����59
Flying Objects �������������������������������������35
Getting Off the Road �������������������������35
Carrying Passengers
and Cargo ���������������������������������������35
Group Riding ���������������������������������������38
BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE
Why This Information Is
Important ���������������������������������������42
Alcohol and Other Drugs in
Motorcycle Operation �������������������42
Alcohol in the Body ����������������������������42
Alcohol and the Law ��������������������������444 THE RIDER AND THE MOTORCYCLE
Motorcycling is a
unique experience.
RIDING ENVIRONMENT
Compared to a car,
you don’t sit in a
motorcycle, you
become part of it.
Not as a passive
driver, but as an
active rider arcing
into a string of
smooth corners,
playing along with
the rhythm of the
road; shifting,
accelerating,
and braking
with precision.
Whether you
ride to and from
work or prefer you, and supports the concept that,
the camaraderie of a group ride on the as the Motorcycle Safety Foundation
weekend, motorcycling engages all your says, “Safe riding depends as much
senses and creates an invigorating sense on the mental skills of awareness and
of freedom. judgment as it does on a physical skill of
Along with that freedom comes maneuvering the machine.”
responsibility. All states require Successfully piloting a motorcycle is a
some form of license endorsement much more involved task than driving a
demonstrating you possess a minimum car. Motorcycling requires a fine sense
level of skill and knowledge. This of balance and a heightened sense of
booklet and other motorcycle awareness and position amidst other
publications can help prepare you to roadway users. A motorcycle responds
be successful. You might also consider more quickly to rider inputs than a car,
taking a formal hands-on training but is also more sensitive to outside
course, even if your state doesn’t require forces, like irregular road surfaces or
that you complete one. You’ll learn how crosswinds. A motorcycle is also less
to improve your riding skills and mental visible than a car due to its narrower
strategies, so you can be a safer, more profile, and offers far less protection by
alert rider. exposing its rider to other traffic and
The diagram above illustrates the the elements. All these risks can be
complex environment that awaits managed through study, training, and
practice.PREPARING TO RIDE 5
What you do before you start a trip goes a long way toward determining
whether or not you’ll get where you want to go safely. Before taking off on any
trip, a safe rider makes a point to:
1. Wear the right gear.
2. Become familiar with the motorcycle.
3. Check the motorcycle equipment.
4. Be a responsible rider.
WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR a helmet kept a rider from spotting
danger.
When you ride, your gear is “right”
if it protects you. In any crash, you have • Most crashes happenon short
trips (less than five miles long), just
a far better chance of avoiding serious
a few minutes after starting out.
injury if you wear:
• Most ridersare riding slower than
• A DOT-compliant helmet. 30 mph when a crash occurs. At
• Face or eye protection. these speeds, helmets can cut both
the number and the severity of head
• Protective clothing.
injuries by half.
Helmet Use No matter what the speed, helmeted
Crashes can occur — particularly riders are three times more likely to
among untrained, beginning riders. survive head injuries than those not
And one out of every five motorcycle wearing helmets at the time of the
crashes results in head or neck injuries. crash. The single most important thing
Head injuries are just as severe as neck you can do to improve your chances of
injuries — and far more common. Crash surviving a crash is to wear a securely-
analyses show that head and neck fastened, quality helmet.
injuries account for a majority of serious
Helmet Selection
and fatal injuries to motorcyclists.
Research also shows that, with few There are two primary types of
exceptions, head and neck injuries are helmets, providing two different levels
reduced by properly wearing a quality of coverage: three-quarter and full face.
helmet. Whichever style you choose, you can
Some riders don’t wear helmets get the most protection by making sure
because they think helmets will limit that the helmet:
their view to the sides. Others wear • Is designed to meet U.S.
helmets only on long trips or when Department of Transportation
riding at high speeds. But, here are (DOT) and state standards. Helmets
some facts to consider: with a label from the Snell Memorial
Foundation also give you an
• A DOT-compliant helmetlets assurance of quality.
you see as far to the sides as
necessary. A study of more than • Fits snugly,all the way around.
900 motorcycle crashes, where • Has no obvious defectssuch as
40% of the riders wore helmets, cracks, loose padding or frayed
did not find even one case in which straps.6 PREPARING TO RIDE
Whatever helmet you
decide on, keep it securely HELMETS
fastened on your head
when you ride. Otherwise,
if you are involved in a
crash, it’s likely to fly off
your head before it gets a
chance to protect you.
Eye and Face
Protection
A plastic impact-resistant
faceshield can help protect
your whole face in a
crash. It also protects you Clothing
from wind, dust, dirt, rain, insects and
pebbles thrown up from cars ahead. The right clothing protects you in
These problems are distracting and a collision. It also provides comfort,
can be painful. If you have to deal as well as protection from heat, cold,
with them, you can’t devote your full debris and hot and moving parts of the
attention to the road. motorcycle. It can also make you more
visible to others.
Goggles protect your eyes, though
they won’t protect the rest of your face • Jacket and pantsshould cover
like a faceshield does. A windshield arms and legs completely. They
is not a substitute for a faceshield or should fit snugly enough to keep
goggles. Most windshields will not from flapping in the wind, yet
protect your eyes from the wind. Neither loosely enough to move freely.
will eyeglasses or sunglasses. Glasses Leather offers the most protection.
won’t keep your eyes from watering, Sturdy synthetic material provides
and they might blow off when you turn a lot of protection as well. Wear
your head while riding. a jacket even in warm weather to
prevent dehydration. Many are
To be effective, eye or faceshield designed to protect without getting
protection must: you overheated, even on summer
• Be freeof scratches. days. Some riders choose jackets
• Be resistantto penetration. and pants with rigid “body armor”
inserts in critical areas for additional
• Give a clear viewto either side. protection.
• Fasten securely,so it does not
• Boots or shoesshould be high
blow off.
and sturdy enough to cover your
• Permit airto pass through, to ankles and give them support. Soles
reduce fogging. should be made of hard, durable,
• Permit enough roomfor slip-resistant material. Keep heels
eyeglasses or sunglasses, if needed. short so they do not catch on rough
Tinted eye protection should not be surfaces. Tuck in laces so they won’t
worn when little light is available. catch on your motorcycle.7
• Glovesallow a better grip and help KNOW YOUR
protect your hands in a crash. Your
gloves should be made of leather or
MOTORCYCLE
similar durable material. There are plenty of things on the
highway that can cause you trouble.
• Hearing protection reduces
Your motorcycle should not be one
noise while allowing you to hear
of them. To make sure that your
important sounds such as car horns
motorcycle won’t let you down:
or sirens. Long term exposure to
engine and wind noise can cause • Startwith the right motorcycle
permanent hearing damage even for you.
if you wear a full face helmet. • Readthe owner’s manual.
Whether you choose disposable
foam plugs or reusable custom • Be familiarwith the motorcycle
molded devices, be sure you adhere controls.
to state laws regarding hearing • Checkthe motorcycle before
protection. every ride.
In cold or wet weather, your clothes • Keepit in safe riding condition
should keep you warm and dry, as between rides.
well as protect you from injury. You
• Avoidadd-ons and modifications
cannot control a motorcycle well if
that make your motorcycle harder
you are numb. Riding for long periods
to handle.
in cold weather can cause severe chill
and fatigue. A winter jacket should The Right Motorcycle For You
resist wind and fit snugly at the neck,
First, make sure your motorcycle is
wrists and waist. Good-quality rainsuits
right for you. It should “fit” you. Your
designed for motorcycle riding resist
feet should reach the ground while
tearing apart or ballooning up at high
you are seated on the motorcycle, and
speeds.
the controls should be easy to operate.
Smaller motorcycles are usually easier
for beginners to operate.
CLOTHING At a minimum, your street-legal
motorcycle should have:
• Headlight, taillight and
brakelight.
TEST YOURSELF 1
A plastic shatter-resistant face
shield:
A. Is not necessary if you have a
windshield.
B. Only protects your eyes.
C. Helps protect your whole face.
D. Does not protect your face as well
as goggles.
Answer - page 488 PREPARING TO RIDE
• Front and rear brakes. involve riders with less than five months
of experience on their motorcycle.
• Turn signals.
• Horn. Get Familiar with the
• Two mirrors.
Motorcycle Controls
Make sure you are completely familiar
Borrowing and Lending with the motorcycle before you take
Borrowers and lenders of motorcycles, it out on the street. Be sure to review
beware. Crashes are more likely to occur the owner’s manual. This is particularly
among beginning riders — especially important if you are riding a borrowed
in the first months of riding. Riding motorcycle.
an unfamiliar motorcycle adds to the If you are going to use an unfamiliar
problem. If you borrow a motorcycle, motorcycle:
get familiar with it in a controlled area.
And if you lend your motorcycle to • Make all the checksyou would on
friends, make sure they are licensed and your own motorcycle.
know how to ride before allowing them • Find out where everything is,
out into traffic. particularly the turn signals, horn,
No matter how experienced you headlight switch, fuel-supply valve
may be, ride extra carefully on any and engine cut-off switch. Find and
motorcycle that’s new or unfamiliar operate these items without having
to you. More than half of all crashes to look for them.
MOTORCYCLE CONTROLS9
• Know the controls.Work the • Try the front and rear brake levers
throttle, clutch, brakes, and shifter a one at a time. Make sure each feels
few times before you start riding. firm and holds the motorcycle when
fully applied.
• Ride very cautiouslyand be aware
of surroundings. Accelerate gently, C — Controls
take turns more slowly and leave • Make sure the clutch and throttle
extra room for stopping. operate smoothly. The throttle
Check Your Motorcycle should snap back to fully closed
when released. The clutch should
A motorcycle needs more frequent feel tight and should operate
attention than a car. A minor technical smoothly.
failure on a car is seldom more than an
• Try the horn. Make sure it works.
inconvenience for the driver. The same
failure on a motorcycle may result in a L — Lights and Electrics
crash or having to leave your motorcycle • Check both headlight and taillight.
parked on the side of the road. If Test your switch to make sure both
anything’s wrong with your motorcycle, high and low beams work.
you’ll want to find out about it before
you get in traffic. • Turn on both right and left hand
turn signals. Make sure all lights are
The primary source of information working properly.
about how a motorcycle should be
• Try both brakes and make sure each
inspected and maintained is its owner’s
one turns on the brake light.
manual. Be sure to absorb all of its
important information. A motorcycle will • Clean and adjust your mirrors
continue to ride like new if it is properly before starting. It’s difficult to ride
maintained and routine inspections with one hand while you try to
become part of its maintenance cycle. adjust a mirror. Adjust each mirror
so you can see the lane behind and
A pre-ride inspection only takes
as much as possible of the lane next
a few minutes and should be done
to you. When properly adjusted, a
before every ride to prevent problems. mirror may show the edge of your
It’s quick and easy to check the critical arm or shoulder – but it’s the road
components and should be as routine behind you and to the side that are
and automatic as checking the weather most important.
forecast before heading out for the day.
A convenient reminder developed by O — Oil and Other Fluids
MSF is T-CLOCSSM. There is a T-CLOCS • Check engine oil and transmission
“tear-out” sheet at the back of this fluid levels.
manual for you to keep with you when
• Check the brake hydraulic fluid and
you ride. A T-CLOCS inspection should coolant level weekly.
be conducted before every ride, and
includes checks of: • Be sure your fuel valve is open
before starting out. With the fuel
T — Tires and Wheels
valve closed, your motorcycle may
• Check tire inflation pressure, start with only the fuel that is still in
treadwear and general condition of the lines, but will stall once the lines
sidewalls and tread surface. are empty.10 PREPARING TO RIDE
• Look underneath the motorcycle for responsibility to look before pulling out.
signs of an oil or fuel leak. Both of you are at fault. Someone else
C — Chassis might be the first to start the chain of
events leading to a crash, but it doesn’t
• Check the front suspension. Ensure leave any of us free of responsibility.
there is no binding. The rear shocks
and springs should move smoothly. As a rider you can’t be sure that other
operators will see you or yield the right
• Be sure the chain or belt is adjusted of way. To lessen your chances of a
according to the manufacturer’s crash occurring:
specifications and that the sprockets
are not worn or damaged. • Be visible— wear proper clothing,
use your headlight, ride in the best
S — Stands
lane position to see and be seen.
• Ensure the side stand operates
• Communicate your intentions—
smoothly and that the spring holds
use the proper signals, brake light
it tightly in the up position. If
and lane position.
equipped, the center stand should
also be held firmly against the frame • Maintain an adequate space
whenever the motorcycle is moving. cushion — when following, being
followed, lane sharing, passing and
Additionally, regular maintenance
being passed.
such as tune-ups and oil changes are as
important for a motorcycle as routine • Search your pathof travel 12
checkups by your doctor are for you. seconds ahead.
Wear and tear is normal with use; • Identify and separatehazards.
routine maintenance will help prevent
costly breakdowns. The schedule for • Be prepared to act— remain alert
regular upkeep for motorcycle parts and know how to carry out proper
and controls is contained in your crash-avoidance skills.
motorcycle’s owner’s manual. Blame doesn’t matter when someone
is injured in a crash. The ability to ride
KNOW YOUR aware, make critical decisions and carry
RESPONSIBILITIES them out separates responsible riders
“Accident” implies an unforeseen from the rest. Remember, it is up to you
event that occurs without fault or to keep from being the cause of, or an
negligence. In traffic, that is not the unprepared participant in, any crash.
case. In fact, most people involved in a
crash can claim some responsibility for
TEST YOURSELF 2
what takes place.
More than half of all crashes:
Consider a situation where someone
decides to drive through an intersection A. Occur at speeds greater than
35mph.
on a yellow light turning red. Your
B. Happen at night.
light turns green. You pull into the
intersection without checking for C. Are caused by worn tires.
possible traffic. That is all it takes for the D. Involve riders who have less than
five months of experience on their
two of you to crash. It was the driver’s motorcycles.
responsibility to stop, and it was your Answer - page 48RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 11
This manual cannot teach you how to control direction, speed or balance.
That’s something you can learn only through practice, preferably in a formal
course of instruction like an MSF RiderCourse. But control begins with knowing
your abilities and riding within them, along with knowing and obeying the rules
of the road.
BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL throttle. Also, adjust the handlebars
so your hands are even with or
Body Position below your elbows. This permits
To control a motorcycle well: you to use the proper muscles for
precision steering.
• Posture— Position yourself
comfortably so you are able to • Knees— Keep your knees against
operate all the controls and can use the gas tank to help you keep your
your arms to steer the motorcycle, balance as the motorcycle turns.
rather than to hold yourself up. • Feet— Keep your feet firmly on the
This helps you bond with your footrests to maintain balance. Don’t
motorcycle and allows you to react drag your feet. If your foot catches
quickly to hazards. on something, you could be injured
• Seat— Sit far enough forward so and it could affect your control of
that arms are slightly bent when the motorcycle. Keep your feet near
you hold the handgrips. Bending the controls so you can get to them
your arms permits you to press on fast if needed. Also, don’t let your
the handlebars without having to toes point downward — they may
stretch. get caught between the road and
the footrests.
• Hands— Hold the handgrips
firmly to keep your grip over rough Shifting Gears
surfaces. Start with your right There is more to shifting gears than
wrist flat. This will help you keep simply getting the motorcycle to pick
from accidentally using too much up speed smoothly. Learning to use the
gears when downshifting, turning or
HOLDING HANDGRIPS starting on hills is equally important for
safe motorcycle operation.
The gearshift lever is located in front
of the left footrest and is operated by
the left foot. To shift “up” to a higher
gear, position your foot under the shift
lever and lift. To downshift, press the
shift lever down. The shift lever changes
one gear each time it is lifted or pressed
down. Whenever the lever is released,
spring loading returns it to center,
where the mechanism resets for the
next shift up or down. A typical gear
pattern is 1-N-2-3-4-5. The N is12 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
for neutral, which is selected by either enough before downshifting safely.
a “half lift” from 1st gear or a “half When downshifting, use a 3-step
press” from 2nd gear. Most motorcycles process: 1) Roll off the throttle as you
have five gears, but some have four or squeeze the clutch lever, 2) press the
six gears. shift lever down firmly, 3) ease out the
clutch lever as you roll on the throttle.
SHIFTING GEARS Once the shift is completed, release
the shift lever to permit it to reset for
the next shift. Rolling on the throttle
slightly while smoothly easing out the
clutch can help the engine come up
to speed more quickly and make the
downshift smoother. Shifting to a lower
gear causes an effect similar to using
the brakes. This is known as engine
braking. To use engine braking, shift
down one gear at a time and ease out
the clutch through the friction zone
between each downshift. Keep the
As your motorcycle increases clutch in the friction zone until the
speed, you will need to shift up to a engine speed stabilizes. Then ease out
higher gear. Shift up well before the the lever fully until ready for the next
engine RPM reaches its maximum downshift. Usually you shift gears one at
recommended speed. As a general rule, a time, but it is possible to shift through
shift up soon enough to avoid over- more than one gear while the clutch is
revving the engine, but not so soon to squeezed.
cause the engine to lug. Remain in first gear while you are
When upshifting, use a 3-step stopped so that you can move out
process: 1) Roll off the throttle as you quickly if you need to.
squeeze the clutch lever, 2) lift the Work toward a smooth, even clutch
shift lever firmly as far as it will go, 3) release, especially when downshifting. It
smoothly ease out the clutch and adjust is best to change gears before entering
the throttle. Once the shift is completed, a turn. However, sometimes shifting
release the shift lever to permit it to while in the turn is necessary. If so,
reset for the next shift. remember to do so smoothly. A sudden
You should shift down through the change in power to the rear wheel can
gears with the clutch as you slow or cause a skid.
stop, and can also shift down when you
need more power to accelerate. Braking
Make certain you are riding slowly Improper braking technique remains
enough when you shift into a lower a significant contributing factor in many
gear. If not, the motorcycle will lurch, motorcycle crashes. Your motorcycle
and the rear wheel may skid. When has two brake controls: one for the
riding downhill or shifting into first gear front wheel and one for the rear wheel.
you may need to use the brakes to slow Always use both brakes every time you13
slow or stop. The front brake is more To stop as quickly and as safely as
powerful and can provide at least 70% possible in a curve, and depending on
of your total stopping power. The front road and traffic conditions, try to get the
brake is safe to use if you use it properly. motorcycle as perpendicular to the road
as possible, then brake. If conditions do
Maximum straight-line braking is
not allow, brake smoothly and gradually,
accomplished by fully applying both
but do not apply as much braking force
front and rear brakes without locking
as you would if the motorcycle were
either wheel.
straight up. As you slow, you can reduce
To do this: your lean angle, and as more traction
• Squeeze the front brake becomes available for braking, you can
smoothly, firmly and with more firmly apply the brakes, so that
progressively more force. Do not by the time the motorcycle is stopped,
grab the brake lever or use abrupt the motorcycle is straight up, and the
pressure. handlebars are squared.
• As the motorcycle’s weight
Linked and Integrated
transfers forward, more traction
becomes available at the front Braking Systems
wheel, so the front brake can be Some motorcycles have linked braking
applied harder after braking begins. which connects the front and rear
• Keep your knees against the brakes on the motorcycle and applies
tank and your eyes up, looking braking pressure to both brakes when
well ahead. This helps you stop the either the front lever or rear pedal is
motorcycle in a straight line. applied. An integrated braking system
is a variation of the linked system in
• Apply light-to-lighter pressure which partial front braking is applied
to the rear brake pedal to prevent a whenever the rear brake is activated.
rear wheel skid. As weight transfers Consult your owner’s manual for a
forward less traction is available detailed explanation on the operation
at the rear. Use less rear brake and effective use of these systems.
pressure.
Anti-Lock Braking Systems
Using both brakes for even “normal”
stops will permit you to develop the (ABS)
proper habit or skill of using both brakes ABS is designed to prevent wheel
properly in an emergency. Squeeze the lock-up and avoid skids when stopping
front brake and press down on the rear. in straight-line, panic situations. ABS
Grabbing at the front brake or jamming operates when maximum pressure on
down on the rear can cause the brakes both the front and rear brake controls
to lock, resulting in control problems. is applied. If electronic sensors detect
the possibility of a wheel lock, brake
Braking in a Corner hydraulic pressure is released then
Any time a motorcycle is leaned over, reapplied to maintain maximum braking
the amount of traction available for effectiveness.
braking is reduced. The greater the lean
The system is capable of releasing and
angle, the more the possibility of the
reapplying pressure more than 15 times
tires losing traction.
per second.14 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
Turning In normal turns, the rider and the
motorcycle should lean together at the
Approach turns and curves with
same angle.
caution. Riders often try to take curves
or turns too fast. When they can’t hold
NORMAL TURNS
the turn, they end up crossing into
another lane of traffic or going off the
road. Or, they overreact and brake too
hard, causing a skid and loss of control.
Use four steps for better control:
• SLOW — Reduce speed before the
turn by closing the throttle and, if
necessary, applying both brakes.
• LOOK— Look through the turn
to where you want to go. Turn
just your head, not your shoulders,
and keep your eyes level with the
horizon.
• PRESS — To turn, the motorcycle
must lean. To lean the motor-
cycle, press on the handgrip in In slow, tight turns, counterbalance by
the direction of the turn. Press left leaning the motorcycle only and keeping
handgrip — lean left — go left. your body straight.
Press right handgrip — lean right
— go right. The higher the speed in SLOW, TIGHT TURNS
a turn, or the sharper the turn, the
greater the lean angle needs to be.
• ROLL — Roll on the throttle to
maintain or slightly increase speed.
This helps stabilize the motorcycle.
TEST YOURSELF 3
When riding, you should:
A. Turn your head and shoulders
to look through turns.
B. Keep your arms straight.
C. Keep your knees away from
the gas tank.
D. Turn just your head and eyes
to look where you are going.
Answer - page 4815
KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE • Avoid windblast from other vehicles.
The best protection you can have is • Provide an escape route.
distance — a “cushion of space” — • Set up for turns.
separating yourself from other vehicles
on the roadway. This will provide you Many motorcyclists consider the left
with a clear view of emerging traffic third of the lane – the left tire track of
situations, so that if someone else automobiles – to be their default lane
makes a mistake, you will have: position. You should then consider
varying your lane position as conditions
• More time to respond. warrant, keeping in mind that no
• More space to maneuver, including portion of the lane need be avoided —
an escape route if necessary. including the center.
You should position yourself in the
Lane Positions portion of the lane where you are most
Successful motorcyclists know that likely to be seen and you can maintain
they are safer when clearly seen. In a space cushion around you. Change
some ways the size of the motorcycle position as traffic situations change.
can work to your advantage. Each traffic Ride in path 2 or 3 if vehicles and other
lane gives a motorcycle three paths of potential problems are on your left
travel, as indicated in the illustration. only. Remain in path 1 or 2 if hazards
are on your right only. If vehicles are
Your lane position should help you:
being operated on both sides of you,
• Increase your ability to see and be the center of the lane, path 2, is usually
seen. your best option.
• Avoid others’ blind spots. Remember, the center third of the
lane is the place where debris and oil
• Avoid surface hazards. drippings from cars collect and where
• Protect your lane from other drivers. hazards such as manhole covers are
located. Unless the road is wet, the
• Communicate your intentions.
LANE POSITIONS16 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
FOLLOWING
average center strip permits adequate count off the seconds: “one-
traction to ride on safely. You can thousand-one, one-thousand-two.”
operate to the left or right of the grease • If you reach the markerbefore
strip and still be within the center third you reach “two,” you are following
of the traffic lane. Avoid riding on big too closely.
buildups of oil and grease usually found
at busy intersections or tollbooths. A two-second following distance
leaves a minimum amount of space to
Experienced riders rely on their own stop or swerve if the driver ahead stops
best judgment and instincts. One suddenly. It also permits a better view of
absolute, however, is to avoid riding in potholes and other hazards in the road.
another vehicle’s blind spot.
A larger cushion of space is needed
Following Another Vehicle if your motorcycle will take longer
“Following too closely” is a factor in than normal to stop. If the pavement
crashes involving motorcyclists. In traffic, is slippery, if you cannot see through
motorcycles need as much distance the vehicle ahead, or if traffic is heavy
to stop as cars. Normally, a minimum and someone may squeeze in front of
of two seconds distance should be you, open up a three-second or more
maintained behind the vehicle ahead. following distance.
To gauge your following distance: Keep well behind the vehicle ahead
even when you are stopped. This will
• Pick out a marker,such as a make it easier to get out of the way
pavement marking or lamppost, on if someone bears down on you from
or near the road ahead. behind. It will also give you a cushion of
• When the rear bumperof the space if the vehicle ahead starts to back
vehicle ahead passes the marker, up for some reason.17
When behind a car, ride where the Passing
driver can see you in the rearview mirror.
Riding in the center portion of the lane 1. Ride in the left portionof the
should put your image in the middle of lane at a safe following distance
the rearview mirror — where a driver is to increase your line of sight and
most likely to see you. make you more visible. Signal
and check for oncoming traffic.
Riding at the far side of a lane may Use your mirrors and turn your
permit a driver to see you in a sideview head to look for traffic behind.
mirror. But remember that most drivers
don’t look at their sideview mirrors 2. When safe,move into the left
nearly as often as they check the lane and accelerate. Select a lane
rearview mirror. If the traffic situation position that doesn’t crowd the
allows, the center portion of the lane is car and provides space to avoid
usually the best place for you to be seen hazards in your lane.
by the drivers ahead and to prevent lane 3. Ride through the blind spotas
sharing by others. quickly as possible.
Being Followed 4. Signal again,and complete
mirror and headchecks before
Speeding up to lose someone following returning to your original lane
too closely only ends up with someone and then cancel the signal.
tailgating you at a higher speed.
Remember, passes must be
A better way to handle tailgaters completed within posted speed
is to get them in front of you. When limits, and only where permitted.
someone is following too closely, Know your signs and road markings!
change lanes and let them pass. If you
can’t do this, slow down and open up
extra space ahead of you to allow room
for both you and the tailgater to stop. PASSING
This will also encourage them to pass.
If they don’t pass, you will have given
yourself and the tailgater more time and
space to react in case an emergency
does develop ahead.
Passing and Being Passed
Passing and being passed by another
vehicle is not much different than with a
car. However, visibility is more critical. Be
sure other drivers see you, and that you
see potential hazards.18 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
Being Passed Do not move into the portion of the
lane farthest from the passing vehicle. It
When you are being passed from might invite the other driver to cut back
behind, stay in the center portion of
into your lane too early.
your lane. Riding close to the passing
vehicle could put you in a hazardous Lane Sharing
situation.
Cars and motorcycles need a full lane
Avoid being hit by: to operate safely. Lane sharing is usually
• The other vehicle — A slight prohibited.
mistake by you or the passing driver
could cause a sideswipe. Riding between rows of stopped or
moving cars in the same lane can leave
• Extended mirrors — Some drivers you vulnerable to the unexpected. A
forget that their mirrors hang out hand could come out of a window;
farther than their fenders.
a door could open; a car could turn
• Objects thrown from windows suddenly. Discourage lane sharing by
— Even if the driver knows you’re others. Keep a center-portion position
there, a passenger may not see you whenever drivers might be tempted
and might toss something on you or
to squeeze by you. Drivers are most
the road ahead of you.
tempted to do this:
• Blasts of wind from larger
vehicles— They can affect your • In heavy,bumper-to-bumper
control. You have more room for traffic.
error if you are in the middle portion • When theywant to pass you.
when hit by this blast than if you
• When youare preparing to turn at
are on either side of the lane.
an intersection.
• When youare moving into an exit
BEING PASSED lane or leaving a highway.
TEST YOURSELF 4
Usually, a good way to handle
tailgaters is to:
A. Change lanes and let them pass.
B. Use your horn and make
obscene gestures.
C. Speed up to put distance
between you and the tailgater.
D. Ignore them.
Answer - page 4819
Merging Cars Cars Alongside
Drivers on an entrance ramp may Do not ride next to cars or trucks in
not see you on the highway. Give them other lanes if you do not have to. You
plenty of room. Change to another lane might be in the blind spot of a car in the
if one is open. If there is no room for a next lane, which could switch into your
lane change, adjust speed to open up lane without warning. Cars in the next
space for the merging driver. lane also block your escape if you come
upon danger in your own lane. Speed
up or drop back to find a place clear of
traffic on both sides.
MERGING BLIND SPOTS20 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
SEE
Good, experienced
RIDER RADAR
riders are always aware of
what is going on around
them. They reduce their
risk by using MSF’s three-
step SEE strategy:
• Search
• Evaluate
• Execute
SEE will help you
assess what is going on
in traffic so you can plan
and implement the safest
course of action as traffic
situations change. Let’s
look at each of these
steps.
Search
How assertively you
search, and how much
time and space you have,
can eliminate or minimize
risk. As you search, focus
considered enough time and space to
on finding potential escape routes,
swerve and/or brake for fixed hazards or
especially in or around intersections,
for someone or something entering your
shopping areas and school and
path of travel.
construction zones.
Finally, experienced riders search for
One way to search is to use your
hazards that are further out, looking
“RiderRadar” to aggressively scan the
ahead to an area it would take about
environment ahead of you, to the sides,
12 seconds to reach. This provides
and behind you to avoid potential
time to prepare for a situation before it
hazards even before they arise. There
becomes immediate.
are three “lead times” experienced
riders consider. First, be alert and scan Using the SEE strategy will help you to
for hazards that are about 2 seconds Search for a variety of factors such as:
ahead of you, or within your following • Oncoming traffic that may turn
distance. Scanning your 4-second left in front of you.
immediate path can allow you time for
a quick response if something should • Traffic coming from the left and
go wrong. Anything that is within 4 from the right.
seconds of your path is considered • Traffic approaching from behind.
immediate because 4 seconds is21
• Hazardous road conditions that Apply the old adage “one step at a
require you to be alert, especially in time” to handle two or more hazards.
areas with limited visibility. Visually Adjust speed to permit two hazards
“busy” surroundings could hide you to separate. Then deal with them one
and your motorcycle from others. at a time as single hazards. Decision-
making becomes more complex with
Evaluate three or more hazards. Evaluate the
Evaluate means to think about how consequences of each and give equal
hazards can interact to create risks for distance to the hazards.
you. Anticipate potential problems and
In potential high-risk areas, such as
have a plan to reduce risks, particularly
intersections, shopping areas and school
when faced with:
and construction zones, cover the clutch
• Road and surface characteristics and both brakes to reduce the time you
such as potholes, guardrails, need to react.
bridges, telephone poles and trees
that won’t move into your path, but INTERSECTIONS
may influence your riding strategy. The greatest potential for conflict
• Traffic control devices including between you and other traffic is at
traffic signals, warning signs, and intersections. An intersection can be
pavement markings, which will in the middle of an urban area or at
require you to carefully evaluate a driveway on a residential street —
circumstances ahead. anywhere traffic may cross your path of
travel. Over one-half of motorcycle/car
• Vehicles and other trafficthat crashes are caused by drivers entering a
may move into your path and rider’s right-of-way. Cars that turn left in
increase the likelihood of a crash. front of you, including cars turning left
Think about your time and space from the lane on your right, and cars on
requirements in order to maintain a side streets that pull into your lane, are
margin of safety, and give yourself the biggest dangers. Your use of SEE
time to react if an emergency arises. at intersections is critical.
Execute
Finally, Execute your decision. To
create more space and minimize harm TEST YOURSELF 5
from any hazard:
To reduce your reaction time, you
• Communicateyour presence with should:
lights and/or horn. A. Ride slower than the speed
• Adjust your speedby accelerating, limit.
stopping or slowing. B. Cover the clutch and the brakes.
• Adjust your positionand/or C. Shift into neutral when slowing.
direction by swerving, changing
D. Pull in the clutch when turning.
lanes, or moving to another position
Answer - page 48
within your lane.22 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
LARGE INTERSECTIONS
There are no guarantees that Increase your chances of being
others see you. Never count on “eye seen at intersections. Ride with your
contact” as a sign that a driver will headlight on and in a lane position that
yield. Too often, a driver looks right at a provides the best view of oncoming
motorcyclist and still fails to “see” him traffic. Provide a space cushion around
or her. The only eyes that you can count the motorcycle that permits you to take
on are your own. If a car can enter your evasive action. When approaching an
path, assume that it will. Good riders intersection where a vehicle driver is
are always “looking for trouble” — not preparing to cross your path, slow down
to get into it, but to stay out of it. and select a lane position to increase
your visibility to that driver. Cover the
clutch lever and both brakes to reduce
SMALL INTERSECTION reaction time. As you enter
TEST YOURSELF 6
Making eye contact with other
drivers:
A. Is a good sign they see you.
B. Is not worth the effort it takes.
C. Doesn’t mean that the driver will
yield.
D. Guarantees that the other driver will
yield to you. Answer - page 4823 the intersection, move away from the vehicle. Do not change speed or position BLIND INTERSECTIONS radically, as drivers might think you are preparing to turn. Be prepared to brake hard and hold your position if an oncoming vehicle turns in front of you, especially if there is other traffic around you. This strategy should also be used whenever a vehicle in the oncoming lane of traffic is signaling for a left turn, whether at an intersection or not. Blind Intersections If you approach a blind intersection, move to the portion of the lane that will bring you into another driver’s field of vision at the earliest possible moment. In this picture, the rider has moved to the left portion of the lane — away from the parked car — so the driver on STOP SIGNS the cross street can see him as soon as possible. Remember, the key is to see as much as possible and remain visible to others while protecting your space. If you have a stop sign or stop line, stop there first. Then edge forward and stop again, just short of where the cross-traffic lane meets your lane. From that position, lean your body forward and look around buildings, parked cars or bushes to see if anything is coming. PARKED CARS Just make sure your front wheel stays out of the cross lane of travel while you’re looking. Passing Parked Cars When passing parked cars, stay toward the left of your lane. You can avoid problems caused by doors opening, drivers getting out of cars or people stepping from between cars. If oncoming traffic is present, it is usually best to remain in the center- lane position to maximize your space cushion.
24 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
A bigger problem can occur if the
driver pulls away from the curb without PARKING AT CURBS
checking for traffic behind. Even if he
does look, he may fail to see you.
In either event, the driver might cut
into your path. Slow down or change
lanes to make room for someone
cutting in.
Cars making a sudden U-turn are
the most dangerous. They may cut
you off entirely, blocking the whole
roadway and leaving you with no
place to go. Since you can’t tell what a
driver will do, slow down and get the
driver’s attention. Sound your horn and
However, you can do many things to
continue with caution.
make it easier for others to recognize
Parking at the Roadside you and your motorcycle.
If parking in a parallel parking space Clothing
next to a curb, position the motorcycle
Most crashes occur in broad daylight.
at an angle with the rear wheel to the
Wear bright-colored clothing to increase
curb. (Note: Some cities have ordinances
your chances of being seen. Remember,
that require motorcycles to park parallel
your body is half of the visible surface
to the curb.)
area of the rider/motorcycle unit.
Increasing Conspicuity Bright orange, red, yellow or green
In crashes with motorcyclists, drivers jackets/vests are your best bets for being
often say that they never saw the seen. Your helmet can do more than
motorcycle. From ahead or behind, a protect you in a crash. Brightly colored
motorcycle’s outline is much smaller helmets can also help others see you.
than a car’s. Also, it’s hard to see Any bright color is better than drab
something you are not looking for, or dark colors. Reflective, bright-colored
and most drivers are not looking for clothing (helmet and jacket/vest) is best.
motorcycles. More likely, they are
looking through the skinny, two- Reflective material on a vest and on
wheeled silhouette in search of cars that the sides of the helmet will help drivers
may pose a problem to them. coming from the side to spot you.
Reflective material can also be a big
Even if a driver does see you coming, help for drivers coming toward you or
you aren’t necessarily safe. Smaller from behind.
vehicles appear farther away and
seem to be traveling slower than they Headlight
actually are. It is common for drivers The best way to help others see your
to pull out in front of motorcyclists, motorcycle is to keep the headlight on
thinking they have plenty of time. Too — at all times (new motorcycles sold in
often, they are wrong. the USA since 1978 automatically25
Once you turn, make sure your signal is
SIGNALING off or a driver may pull directly into your
path, thinking you plan to turn again.
Use your signals at every turn so drivers
can react accordingly. Don’t make them
guess what you intend to do.
Brake Light
Your motorcycle’s brake light is usually
not as noticeable as the brake lights on
a car — particularly when your taillight
is on. (It goes on with the headlight.)
If the situation will permit, help others
notice you by flashing your brake light
before you slow down. It is especially
important to flash your brake light
before:
have the headlights on when running). • You slow more quicklythan
Studies show that, during the day, a others might expect (turning off a
motorcycle with its light on is twice as high-speed highway).
likely to be noticed. Use low beam at • You slow whereothers may not
night and in fog. expect it (in the middle of a block or
Signals at an alley).
The signals on a motorcycle are similar If you are being followed closely, it’s
to those on a car. They tell others what a good idea to flash your brake light
you plan to do. before you slow. The tailgater may be
watching you and not see something
However, due to a rider’s added ahead that will make you slow down.
vulnerability, signals are even more This will hopefully discourage them from
important. Use them anytime you plan tailgating and warn them of hazards
to change lanes or turn. Use them even ahead they may not see.
when you think no one else is around.
It’s the car you don’t see that’s going to Using Your Mirrors
give you the most trouble. Your signal While it’s most important to keep
lights also make you easier to spot. track of what’s happening ahead, you
That’s why it’s a good idea to use your can’t afford to ignore situations behind.
turn signals even when what you plan Traffic conditions change quickly.
to do is obvious. Knowing what’s going on behind is
When you enter a freeway, drivers essential for you to make a safe decision
approaching from behind are more likely about how to handle trouble ahead.
to see your signal blinking and make Frequent mirror checks should be part
room for you. of your normal searching routine. Make
Turning your signal light on before a special point of using your mirrors:
each turn reduces confusion and • When you are stoppedat an
frustration for the traffic around you. intersection. Watch cars coming up26 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
from behind. If the drivers aren’t
paying attention, they could be on USING MIRRORS
top of you before they see you.
• Before you change lanes.Make
sure no one is about to pass you.
• Before you slow down. The driver
behind may not expect you to slow,
or may be unsure about where you
will slow. For example, you signal a
turn and the driver thinks you plan
to turn at a distant intersection,
rather than at a nearer driveway.
Most motorcycles have rounded
(convex) mirrors. These provide a
wider view of the road behind than
do flat mirrors. They also make cars
seem farther away than they really are.
If you are not used to convex mirrors,
get familiar with them. (While you
are stopped, pick out a parked car in Frequent head checks should be
your mirror. Form a mental image of your normal scanning routine, also.
how far away it is. Then, turn around Only by knowing what is happening
and look at it to see how close you all around you are you fully prepared
came.) Practice with your mirrors until to deal with it.
you become a good judge of distance.
Even then, allow extra distance before
Horn
you change lanes. Be ready to use your horn to get
someone’s attention quickly.
Head Checks
It is a good idea to give a quick beep
Checking your mirrors is not enough. before passing anyone that may move
Motorcycles have “blind spots” like cars. into your lane.
Before you change lanes, turn your head,
and look to the side for other vehicles. Here are some situations:
On a road with several lanes, check • A driverin the lane next to you
the far lane and the one next to you. A is driving too closely to the vehicle
driver in the distant lane may head for ahead and may want to pass.
the same space you plan to take. • A parked carhas someone in the
driver’s seat.
TEST YOURSELF 7
• Someone is in the street,riding a
Reflective clothing should:
bicycle or walking.
A. Be worn at night.
In an emergency, sound your horn
B. Be worn during the day.
loud and long. Be ready to stop or
C. Not be worn.
swerve away from the danger.
D. Be worn day and night
Answer - page 4827
Keep in mind that a motorcycle’s horn CRASH AVOIDANCE
isn’t as loud as a car’s — therefore, use it,
but don’t rely on it. Other strategies, like No matter how careful you are, there
having time and space to maneuver, may will be times when you find yourself in a
be appropriate along with the horn. tight spot. Your chances of getting out
safely depend on your ability to react
Riding at Night quickly and properly. Often, a crash
At night it is harder for you to see occurs because a rider is not prepared or
and be seen. Picking your headlight skilled in crash-avoidance maneuvers.
or taillight out of the car lights around Know when and how to stop or
you is not easy for other drivers. To swerve, two skills critical in avoiding
compensate, you should: a crash. It is not always desirable or
• Reduce Your Speed — Ride even possible to stop quickly to avoid an
slower than you would during the obstacle. Riders must also be able to
day — particularly on roads you swerve around an obstacle. Deter-
don’t know well. This will increase mining which skill is necessary for the
your chances of avoiding a hazard. situation is important as well.
• Increase Distance— Distances Studies show that most crash-
are harder to judge at night than involved riders:
during the day. Your eyes rely upon
shadows and light contrasts to • Underbrakethe front tire and
determine how far away an object overbrake the rear.
is and how fast it is coming. These • Did notseparate braking from
contrasts are missing or distorted swerving or did not choose
under artificial lights at night. swerving when it was appropriate.
Open up a three-second following
distance or more. And allow more The following information offers
distance to pass and be passed. some good advice.
• Use the Car Ahead— The Quick Stops
headlights of the car ahead can give
you a better view of the road than To stop quickly, apply both brakes
even your high beam can. Taillights at the same time. Don’t be shy about
bouncing up and down can alert using the front brake, but don’t “grab”
you to bumps or rough pavement. it, either. Squeeze the brake lever
• Use Your High Beam— Get all the firmly and progressively. If the front
light you can. Use your high beam wheel locks, release the front brake
whenever you are not following immediately then reapply it firmly. At
or meeting a car. Be visible: Wear the same time, press down on the
reflective materials when riding at rear brake. If you accidentally lock the
night. rear brake on a good traction surface,
• Be Flexible About Lane Position. you can keep it locked until you have
Change to whatever portion of the completely stopped; but, even with a
lane is best able to help you see, be locked rear wheel, you can control the
seen and keep an adequate space motorcycle on a straightaway if it is
cushion. upright and going in a straight line.28 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
Stopping Quickly
STOPPING DISTANCE
in a Curve
If you know the technique,
using both brakes in a turn is
possible, although it should
be done very carefully. When
leaning the motorcycle some
of the traction is used for
cornering. Less traction is
available for stopping. A skid
can occur if you apply too much
brake. Also, using the front
brake incorrectly on a slippery
surface may be hazardous. Use caution feet of stopping to maintain your balance
and squeeze the brake lever, never grab. and remain upright.
If you must stop quickly while turning Swerving or Turning Quickly
in a curve, first straighten and square Sometimes you may not have enough
the handlebars, then stop. If you find room to stop, even if you use both
yourself in a situation that does not allow brakes properly. You may encounter an
straightening first, such as when there is unexpected object in your path. Or the
a danger of running off the road in a left- car ahead might sqeal to a stop. The
hand curve, or when facing oncoming only way to avoid a crash may be to
traffic in a right-hand curve, apply the turn quickly or swerve around it.
brakes smoothly and gradually. As you
slow, you can reduce your lean angle A swerve is a sudden change in
and apply more brake pressure until the direction. It can be two quick turns,
motorcycle is straight and maximum or a rapid shift to the side. Apply a
brake pressure can be applied. Always small amount of hand pressure to the
straighten the handlebars in the last few handlegrip located on the side of your
intended direction of escape. This will
SWERVE, THEN BRAKE BRAKE, THEN SWERVE29
cause the motorcycle to lean quickly. crash and serious injury or death. Too
The sharper the turn(s), the more the much rear brake pressure causes rear-
motorcycle must lean. wheel lockup. As soon as the rear wheel
locks, your ability to change direction is
Keep your body upright and allow
lost. To regain control the brake must
the motorcycle to lean in the direction
be released. However, if the rear wheel
of the turn while keeping your knees
is out of alignment with the front, there
against the tank and your feet solidly on
is a risk of a high-side crash. This occurs
the foot rests. Let the motorcycle move
when the wheels are out of alignment
underneath you. Make your escape
and a locked rear wheel is released. The
route the target of your vision. Press
motorcycle can abruptly snap upright
on the opposite handlegrip once you
and tumble, throwing the rider into the
clear the obstacle to return you to your
air ahead of the motorcycle’s path. Even
original direction of travel. To swerve to
slight misalignment can result in a high-
the left, press the left handlegrip, then
side crash.
press the right to recover. To swerve to
the right, press right, then left. Curves
If braking is required, separate it A primary cause of single-vehicle
from swerving. Brake before or after crashes is motorcyclists running wide in
– never while swerving. a curve or turn and colliding with the
roadway or a fixed object.
Maximum Straight-Line
Braking Every curve is different. Be alert to
whether a curve remains constant,
Maximum straight-line braking is gradually widens, gets tighter or
accomplished by fully applying front involves multiple turns. Ride within your
and rear brakes without locking either skill level and posted speed limits.
wheel. Keep your body centered over
the motorcycle and look well ahead, Your best path may not always follow
not down. This will help you keep the curve of the road. Change lane
the motorcycle in as straight a line as position depending on traffic, road
possible, minimizing lean angle and the conditions and curve of the road. If no
likelihood of the wheels losing traction. traffic is present, start at the outside
of a curve to increase your line of sight
Front-Wheel Skids and the effective radius of the turn. As
If the front wheel locks, release the you turn, move toward the inside of the
front brake immediately and completely. curve, and as you pass the center, move
to the outside to exit.
Reapply the brake smoothly. Front-
wheel skids result in immediate loss of Another alternative is to move to the
steering control and balance. Failure to center of your lane before entering a
fully release the brake lever immediately curve — and stay there until you exit.
will result in a crash. This permits you to spot approaching
traffic as soon as possible. You can also
Rear-Wheel Skids adjust for traffic “crowding” the center
A skidding rear tire is a dangerous line, or debris blocking part of your lane.
condition that can result in a violentYou can also read
